This overnight rafting journey, with Grade 2 and 3 rapids, takes you through the heart of the West Coast. The lush green native beech forest and steep gorges with a backdrop of rugged mountains are spectacular.
Lush green native beech forest, steep-walled gorges, fun rafting, and camping make this adventure on the Upper Grey River/Māwheranui a pretty special and beautiful overnight trip.
Grey Raft 2 Day Adventure
Come and experience the best of New Zealand's backcountry with us
With beech trees that come right down to the river's edge, you will know you are on the West Coast from the very beginning of this two day adventure. Starting off the first day with some entertaining rapids before the river valley widens, we get good views of Mt Rameses and other peaks in the area.
"Stunning! Don't let the name Grey put you off."
Upper Grey River / Māwheranui – Reefton
Explore the wild beauty of the Upper Grey River / Māwheranui — a hidden West Coast gem surrounded by native beech forest, steep gorges, and crystal-clear water. Accessible only by river, it’s adventure and serenity in one unforgettable journey.
Learn More →Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day One - Into the Wilderness
After a day on the river, we make camp on the beautiful kanuka flats just above the Gentle Annie section. The evening is always fun; sitting around a fire, sharing stories, and a delicious meal which is hard to beat.
Expand for Full Day One Details
- Meet at 9:00 am in Reefton and drive for about an hour to the river.
- Transfer camp clothes into provided dry bags and change into provided river gear.
- Comprehensive safety briefing before setting off; no previous rafting experience needed.
- Practice and refine paddle strokes immediately on the first section, maneuvering around rocks.
- The first four kilometers feature native beech trees right down to the river's edge.
Afternoon & Evening: Rapids & Camping
- Before lunch, push through some entertaining rapids, including the Log Jam. Guides may check the Log Jam's status after recent floods.
- The river then opens into a wide valley with Grade 2 rapids.
- Enjoy great views of Mt Rameses (1,453m) towering over the river.
- Make camp at one of the beautiful spots on the river's edge.
- A meal will be cooked over the open fire.
Day Two - The Gentle Annie Gorge
Day two starts with a hearty breakfast before we begin the second leg of our adventure. The river this morning is exciting, leading to the spectacular steep-walled Gentle Annie Gorge.
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- Start the day after a delicious breakfast.
- The hills tighten up as you tackle the fun rock garden section.
- The slopes are covered in rich greens from moss, beech, and fern.
- Float past 'the Lady of the Grey', a tall waterfall.
- Meet the biggest waves and rocks, including rapids named Double Rock and Annie's Waves.
- Annie's Waves is a super fun wave chain, acting as a gentle roller coaster to lunch.
Afternoon: Gorges & Finish
- Float through the spectacular Gentle Annie Gorge, a steep-walled canyon.
- This gorge is only accessible via the river, making your view truly unique.
- Shortly after the first gorge, you enter a second, equally stunning gorge.
- On a hot day, the gorges are great places for a swim in deep pools.
- Reach the end point in the mid-afternoon, normally arriving back in Reefton around 4:00 pm.
Pick-up & Logistics
Pick-up Time: 9:00 am
Pick-up Locations: Reefton or Springs Junction
Transport: Mini bus or helicopter to and from Upper Grey River
What's Included
✓ Rafting Gear
Helmets, life jackets, wetsuits, splash jacket, thermal top, water shoes and small dry bags for sunscreen.
✓ All Meals
2 lunches, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast — delicious meals cooked on the campfire.
✓ Camping Equipment
All camping gear supplied — tents, sleeping mats, and more.
✓ Expert Guides
Experienced, qualified river guides for your safety and enjoyment.
🎒 What to Bring
- Swimwear or underwear for under the wetsuit
- Sunscreen
- Personal medication (e.g., asthma inhaler)
- Towel and change of clothes for after the trip
Note: We provide all camping gear — you don't need to bring your own tent or sleeping bag!
Ready for This Adventure?
Per Adult | $700 Per Child (10-18 years)
Includes all rafting gear, meals, camping equipment, and expert guides
📋 Cancellation Policy
If Inland Adventures cancel a raft trip for any reason (e.g., unsuitable river conditions), you will receive a 100% refund. There will be a 10% trip fare fee for any cancellation outside 72 hours of departure.
